R.E.A.P. Club

With the retreat of the 'pre-crisis' speculator who bought for quick profitable resales; the new 'post-crisis' investor is emerging ... a new type of international real estate investor with a different mindset and goals.

One can expect the 'new' global investor to:

• *  Be informed and demand better service from the industry
• * Not make decisions based on thin slices of information but demand openness and transparency
• * Be skeptical of promises made by developers on their websites and brochures
• * Be wary of pre-construction properties, preferring to purchase completed real estate with amenities they can enjoy right now.
• * Want to understanding the financial health of the community before they invest
• * Expect substantial discounts on the market highs of 2007
• * To haggle, even when it comes to high-end properties
• * To be drawn to real estate that is a bit low key
• * To be interested in properties that generate revenue in the short term.
• * To be motivated by lifestyle factors (not just financial gain)
• * Focus on regions with a low cost of living, good health care and safe streets
• * To avoid areas with over-supply risk and copy-cat developments
• * To seek safe haven investments and tax friendly environments
• * Be interested in contributions to larger concerns such as environmental preservation, the local community and sustainable approaches to building, water, and energy

New opportunities come with change. Retirees and investors will continue to consider their options, of which a more affordable life overseas will be a consideration. As Africa continues to open South Africa can look forward to a healthier, more sustainable interst in second homes from the international real estate markets.

Read a full article at Globaledge.co.uk